At 2,214 kilometers (about 1,376 miles) long, the Pearl River is the third largest river in China and the largest one in Guangzhou. 

It is so called because it contains a stone island resembling a huge pearl, polished by the constantly-flowing water of the river. Spanning eight provinces, the Pearl River is composed of four river systems including the West River, North River, East River and Liuxi River. The four river systems converge in Guangzhou and flow into the South China Sea.

The Pearl River in Guangzhou City is picturesque, adorned by charming views along the river. A cruise along the Pearl River in Guangzhou City has become a must for visitors to Guangzhou. Whether you choose a daytime or an evening cruise, it will be a highlight of your trip.

One can not be considered to have visited Guangzhou if he hasn't cruised the scenic Pearl River. Views along the Pearl River in Guangzhou City are charming and gentle. Historical sites and unique architecture scattered along the Pearl River are numerous and are a goodly reflection of the Guangzhou culture. Among them are architectures in Shamian where converge a number of ancient architectures from various countries, the White Goose Pool that is one of the eight most famous scenes in Guangzhou, and ten characteristic bridges

Compared with the daytime cruise on the Pearl River, the night cruise is even more fascinating under the sparkling lights. The night cruise starts from the White Goose Pool and ends at the Guangzhou Bridge in the east and Baihedong (White Crane Cave) in the south. This section offers visitors vistas such as 'Night Moon over the Goose Pool' and 'Red Heart of the Pearl River'. Every visitor will be captivated by the beauty of the Pearl River during this two-hour evening cruise.

[via travelchinaguide.com website]